The Fringe Panel opened with what appeared to be an ordinary ol’ boring sizzle reel. Events from the previous season played out across the screen: the battle between two universes, Olivia trapped on the “other side”, Broyles barking out orders, Walter attempting to save the day, Astrid assisting… all the characters given a moment or two (Lincoln Lee, Nina Sharp, Charlie Francis) everyone except the male lead of the show. Peter Bishop was nowhere to be found. His de-existence branching out to the very marketing of the show. What happened to Peter? How will he be brought back into existence (i.e. on the show)? Can he be? For the answers to these questions, hit the jump.

J.H Wyman quickly pointed to the screen to intro audition tapes for a Peter Bishop replacement. The comical video (which you can watch below) featured the likes of Zachary Quinto, Greg Grunberg, Michael Emerson, Jorge Garcia, Damon Lindleof – all auditioning to less than spectacular results. The clip ends with Joshua Jackson – sans eyebrows, skin whitened, decked in suit and tie – auditioning for the role as an Observer.

Jackson then joined the panel dressed in Observer attire, a clear sign of just how he will be returning next season. Of course this answer naturally only leads to more questions – namely: Are the Observers a group of people that have willed themselves out of existence? Debate in the comments below.